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Home / Is Your Home at Risk of Freezing Pipes This Winter?

Is Your Home at Risk of Freezing Pipes This Winter?

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Hints & Tips - Indianapolis - Pipelines - Repairs

Balmy or not, winter weather is coming to Indy. When it does, no homeowner wants to run the risk of freezing pipes. What kind of pipes and situations stand a greater risk of freezing? Is there anything you can do? Plumb On covers the answers to these questions and more in this post.

Is Your Home at Risk of Freezing Pipes This Winter?

What Types of Pipes Risk Freezing?

When it comes to freezing pipes, internal frozen water expands and can damage any material. However, the risk of freezing pipes is more significant with some materials than others. For instance, copper pipes carry the most risk, followed by PVC. Moreover, newer materials perform even better. 

In addition to the type of pipes you have, their placement is also a factor. For example, basement and garage pipes carry the most risk as well as those near the home’s perimeter and exterior. Internal pipes tend to fare better. Still, any line can freeze if the furnace goes out in freezing weather for several hours. 

Are Freezing Pipes Common?

How big of a deal is this, really? I mean, every communication seems to be intended to manufacture fear at times. That’s not what Plumb On wants. We simply want you to understand the risk and protect accordingly. In reality, burst pipes are one of the most common insurance claims, causing tons in property damage annually. Freezing weather is a common cause, resulting in significant water damage, potential mold, and repairs. 

What Can I Do to Prevent Freezing Pipes?

Uninsulated pipes carry the most significant risk of freezing once temps drop below 20 degrees. To address this issue, consider purchasing pipe insulation. Below is a list of additional precautions to take:

  1. Keep the garage doors closed.
  2. Keep interior doors and cabinets open (especially bathrooms and rooms with plumbing).
  3. Keep a slow water drip running from the faucets to prevent freezing. Running water is less likely to freeze than standing water. 
  4. Don’t get too energy efficient with the thermostat. Turning off the heat or turning it down too far in the winter may save money in heating costs, but it doesn’t matter if you have a huge plumbing repair or water damage restoration bill. This includes when you go on vacation or are away from home. 
  5. Ensure that attics, basements, and crawl spaces are adequately insulated. 
  6. Seal cracks, window sills, and door frames to prevent cold air. 

When It’s Time to Call a Plumber

Sometimes things happen, and it’s okay to call an expert. At Plumb On, we serve Indianapolis and the donut counties. Call us at (317) 659-6225 to speak to a professional, request service online, or get a free quote. 

Source: http://disastersafety.org/wp-content/uploads/Freezing-Bursting-Pipes_IBHS-White.pdf